Social contract: Difference between revisions

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We are dedicated to the use of the scientific method.  This method involves the transparent identification of hypotheses using precise language, the development of tests, and the development of logical networks of theory from which we can make inferences.   
We are dedicated to the use of the scientific method.  This method involves the transparent identification of hypotheses using precise language, the development of tests, and the development of logical networks of theory from which we can make inferences.   
===Use of logic and transparent conceptual models===
===Use of logic and transparent conceptual models===
We agree to test our own logic and present ideas in a clear and sequential manner.  When others challenge our logic we will assume that our communication was not sufficiently explicit, and will work to improve the clarity and precision of our communications.
We agree to test our own logic and present ideas in a clear and sequential manner.  When others challenge our logic we will assume that our communication was not sufficiently explicit, and will work to improve the clarity and precision of our communications. Our goal of challenge and refinement is to identify specific competing hypotheses that can be tested.
 
===Presentation of evidence and citation===
===Presentation of evidence and citation===
We will focus our contributions on the identification and precise citation of evidence to test hypotheses and clarify conceptual models.  Evidence is not limited to peer reviewed publications, however we must be clear about the sources of our evidence so that others way weigh our evidence using their own judgment.
We will focus our contributions on the identification and precise citation of evidence to test hypotheses and clarify conceptual models.  Evidence is not limited to peer reviewed publications, however we must be clear about the sources of our evidence so that others way weigh our evidence using their own judgment.

Revision as of 15:47, 1 September 2011

Template:Basic Our participation in the Nearshore Wiki as an editor is based on our agreement to follow our social contract. This is a non-legal agreement that is administered by our moderator team which is responsible for interpreting and applying these provisions. It establishes the principles we follow when adding or editing material in this wiki. Complaints can be made on our Complaints Page.

The Scientific Ethos

We are dedicated to the use of the scientific method. This method involves the transparent identification of hypotheses using precise language, the development of tests, and the development of logical networks of theory from which we can make inferences.

Use of logic and transparent conceptual models

We agree to test our own logic and present ideas in a clear and sequential manner. When others challenge our logic we will assume that our communication was not sufficiently explicit, and will work to improve the clarity and precision of our communications. Our goal of challenge and refinement is to identify specific competing hypotheses that can be tested.

Presentation of evidence and citation

We will focus our contributions on the identification and precise citation of evidence to test hypotheses and clarify conceptual models. Evidence is not limited to peer reviewed publications, however we must be clear about the sources of our evidence so that others way weigh our evidence using their own judgment.

Use of Language

The most subjective portion of our social contract concerns our choice of words, where we contribute words, and the intent behind that contribution.

Use Clear Neutral Language

Our purpose is to precisely convey meaning so that all readers can understand our words. Words that form the crux of a hypothesis, theory, or argument should be selected carefully so that there is no ambiguity about their meaning. Words designed to provoke an emotive response or conclusion based on snap judgement (for example, words like 'ridiculous' or 'obvious') rather than weight of evidence cloud our ability to accurately assess the state of knowledge. Toward this end we agree to use neutral language to describe evidence and uncertainty. Where definition or meaning of words is ambiguous, operational definitions will be provided, or developed on a special topic page.

Provide Impersonal Analysis

We agree that the purpose of contributing to the wiki is to strengthen a network of knowledge to advance conservation science. To this end, we commit to the analysis of concise ideas, not the critique of individuals providing the ideas. If the ideas are flawed, the ideas should be challenged as described.

Critique

Each page has two sides: a main page where the goal is to provide accurate and precise information about our knowledge and activities, and a critique page, where the goal is to identify weaknesses in the text and provoke stronger analysis. Authors of text are encouraged to resolve strong critique through text revision or discussion in person, or on the critique page.

Disagreement

Where two authors are unable to develop text that reflects a shared understanding, this requires that we develop a more detailed understanding of the disagreement. There are three alternatives:

  1. One author may present their view in the page text, and the other author may dissent on the critique page.
  2. One author may present a majority view in the page text, while the other develops a dissenting view in a special topic page.
  3. The disagreement is presented using precise and neutral language, and the disagreement is further represented in a special topic page.

In all cases, we will be careful to identify and focus on citation of evidence and precise conceptual arguments. Should two authors be unable to come to an agreement, the matter should be posted on the complaints page and a decision will be made by the moderator team.

Posting of materials

We will only post materials where the author has agreed that the material is ready and appropriate for public distribution. We will not infringe on personal copyright, or an authors personal opinion of when materials are ready for distribution. We will be consistent with agency policy in our dissemination of research products. We understand that the Nearshore Wiki is governed by a Creative Commons Cite and Share Alike License.

Editing Text

We will work to generate clean and accessible text. The purpose of this platform is the transfer information and work products, not the development of on-line expository essays. We use links, templates and categories to enhance the accessibility of information. I will follow the practices of this wiki when developing new pages or editing existing pages including:

Personal Responsibility

I recognize that it is my personal responsibility to understand this social contract and work with my colleagues to demonstrate my good intentions. I understand that if other members repeatedly find my conduct inconsistent with this contract that my participation as an editor of this site may be brought to an end.